Warm Homes and Cheaper Bills: Government Launches Major Energy Overhaul for Private Renters

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London, UK — In a major step to tackle fuel poverty and improve housing standards, the UK Government today unveiled bold new proposals requiring all privately rented homes in England and Wales to meet a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C by 2030. This forms a core part of the Government’s Plan for Change, aimed at making homes warmer and more affordable for millions of tenants.

Nearly half a million households could be lifted out of fuel poverty under the new measures, with renters set to save up to £240 per year on average in energy costs.

“Through our Plan for Change we are driving up housing standards, improving quality of life, and slashing energy bills for working people and families,” said Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner.

The proposed regulations would require private landlords to install key energy-saving features such as loft insulation, double glazing, or cavity wall insulation, with a maximum investment cap of £15,000 per property. Lower-cost homes may qualify for a reduced cap of £10,000 under new affordability exemptions.

The proposals include:

• Mandatory EPC C rating for all private rentals by 2030

• Flexibility for landlords to meet standards through fabric-first improvements, followed by options like solar panels and smart meters

• Support through government schemes including the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and the Warm Homes: Local Grant

“For too long, tenants have lived in cold, inefficient homes,” said Energy Secretary Ed Miliband. “Our plan ensures landlords upgrade their properties and tenants get warmer homes and lower bills.”

Widespread Support from Industry and Advocacy Groups

The announcement has been welcomed by housing and energy leaders:

Caroline Flint, Chair of the Committee on Fuel Poverty:“The lack of investment by some landlords to end cold homes has gone on too long. This is a long-overdue reset.”

Adam Scorer, Chief Executive of National Energy Action:“These changes are the ambition we need to meet legal fuel poverty targets and protect the most vulnerable.”

Charles Wood, Deputy Director at Energy UK:“Boosting energy efficiency is the most effective way to reduce bills and improve health.”

Ben Twomey, Chief Executive at Generation Rent:“One in four renters lives in fuel poverty—this is the action we’ve been waiting for.”

The Government is currently consulting landlords, tenants, and industry bodies on the details of the proposals and a revised Fuel Poverty Strategy, ensuring low-income households are better protected from high energy costs while supporting the UK’s push toward net zero.

For further information, media enquiries, or to request an interview, please contact:[Press Office – Department for Energy Security and Net Zero]📧 press.office@energy.gov.uk📞 020 7946 1234